Archives February 2025

Mumbai, 21 February 2025: “India is not a poor country anymore, and we must take bold steps in developing our foundational AI models.” Dr. Manish Gupta, Senior Director at Google DeepMind, who leads AI research teams across India and Japan, shared his perspective at ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025 on the crucial role of AI in transforming India and its power in solving global challenges.

Speaking on the topic ‘Transforming India with AI: Why We Need More Data’, Dr. Manish Gupta, said, “Some assume that building foundational AI models requires hundreds of millions of dollars, but we must have the courage to take on challenges that have never been attempted before. AI is an old discipline, almost as old as computing itself. The reason ChatGPT and similar models took off is the innovation of transformer architecture, which has been key to foundational AI models.”

Adding to the conversation, Dr. Manish Gupta, said, “AI is accelerating progress on a range of critical problems, from drug discovery and plastic pollution to structural biology. Innovations like AlphaFold are helping us solve complex scientific challenges faster than ever before.”

Sharing his views on AI’s role in language and culture, Dr. Gupta added, “We are focused on building the best multimodal representation for 100+ Indic languages, ensuring AI development is inclusive and supports India’s linguistic diversity. Multicultural AI models will shape the future of technology. Our mission is to build AI responsibly for humanity. The world is excited about AI, but we must ensure it benefits everyone, not just the privileged few. AI expertise should be widespread and accessible to all.”

Talking about AI’s future capabilities, ethics and emotional understanding, he commented, “AI is biased because it is built by humans, and we carry our biases into these systems. The reality is that AI still struggles to understand emotions like love. Companies like Google are working on AI principles to mitigate bias and ensure responsible AI development. AI can become a better version of human beings, like AI can help artists explore new genres, but when it comes to competition, humans will always win. AI can hallucinate, but human creativity and intuition will always have the upper hand.”

The ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025, centred on the theme ‘Humanity’s Next Frontier’, will convene thought leaders and innovators to explore the challenges and opportunities in India’s ascendance in a rapidly changing world. In the face of climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and technological advancements like AI, the summit delved into India’s role as both an ancient civilisation and a demographic powerhouse in shaping the future. The two-day summit brings together a confluence of ideas from global thought leaders, intellectuals, and change-makers, covering transformative possibilities in science, medicine, social contracts, and global leadership, with experts from diverse fields offering bold visions of a better, more sustainable world for all.

Bengaluru, 21 February 2025: In a significant step towards sustainable water management in Bengaluru, Ms. Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide, unveiled an innovative ‘Rainwater Percolation Wells’ model at the Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park (IGMF) in Bengaluru. The initiative, led by United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) under its flagship program ‘One Billion Drops’ aims to enhance public awareness about sustainable rainwater conservation and inspire community participation in recharging the city’s natural aquifers.

At IGMF Park, 12 wells have been established, each capable of conserving 1,28,100 liters of water annually. These wells are built underground, and the newly installed physical model at the park visually demonstrates how they function. This model helps communities understand the process, encouraging them to adopt similar rainwater harvesting solutions in their private spaces to conserve water and recharge borewells.

United Way Bengaluru has been a leader in urban water conservation, constructing nearly 8,000 percolation wells since 2020 across public parks, government institutions, and campuses in Bengaluru, with an additional 2,000 wells in the pipeline. These 8,000 wells have the potential to significantly contribute to the city’s water sustainability efforts, conserving 10.24 million liters of water annually. A similar first-of-its-kind prototype was installed at Lalbagh in 2022, which has since drawn thousands of visitors, generating widespread public awareness about rainwater percolation wells. The success of that initiative paved the way for more such models to be introduced across the city, with the latest one at IGMF Park reinforcing the importance of rainwater conservation.

Speaking on this occasion, Dr. M. Jagadesh, Joint Director of Horticulture (Parks and Gardens), Lalbagh said “The Horticulture Department, Karnataka has been working with United Way Bengaluru for several years on various environmental initiatives, from water conservation to greening urban spaces. This rainwater percolation well prototype is a great step toward public awareness and sustainable water management. We look forward to continuing this partnership to drive many more environmental initiatives in the future.

“Water conservation is a critical challenge not just for Bengaluru, but for cities worldwide facing the impacts of climate change and rapid urbanization. United Way believes in local solutions with global impact, and Bengaluru’s ‘One Billion Drops’ initiative exemplifies how Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) can drive meaningful change. By bringing together the government, corporates, and communities to adopt sustainable water conservation practices like rainwater percolation wells, we are not only addressing immediate water challenges but also building a resilient future for generations to come. United Way Bengaluru’s leadership in fostering these collaborations is truly commendable, and I hope to see similar initiatives replicated in other cities worldwide.” said Angela F. Williams, President and CEO, of United Way Worldwide.

“Rooted in a community-focused approach, the ‘One Billion Drops‘ campaign is not just a solution; it’s a movement. A scalable, replicable model that brings together communities and stakeholders for rainwater conservation and sustainability. I am grateful to Angela for joining us to unveil the prototype

Mumbai, February 21, 2025: Pokémon Run Mumbai 2025 makes its debut in India at Jio World Garden, Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), inviting everyone to step into a real-life Pokémon adventure. This celebration of fitness, fandom, and community experience is set to unite Mumbaikars of all ages for an unforgettable day.

Participants can choose between a 2K or 5K fun run, navigating a specially-designed route filled with Pokémon-themed elements. Each participant will receive an official race kit with a t-shirt and goodies upon registration, and a finisher’s medal upon completing the run.

The festivities take place at BKC, with the 2K fun run scheduled for 1st March 2025 and the 5K fun run on 2nd March 2025. Gates open at 5:00 AM, featuring a Zumba session at 6:30 AM, leading into the official flag-off at 7:00 AM.

Registrations for Pokémon Run Mumbai 2025 are now live. People can secure their spot through the official Pokémon website or via BookMyShow, with limited slots available.

The excitement kicks off at Pokémon Carnival, scheduled from 27th February to 1st March, where participants can collect their race kit before the run. Also open to the general public at a small entrance fee, this fun-filled carnival allows attendees to immerse themselves in themed attractions and live entertainment.

The venue transforms into a vibrant celebration featuring interactive games, a Pikachu parade, memorable meet-and-greet sessions with Pokémon, and merchandise zones showcasing limited-edition collectables.

Mr. Susumu Fukunaga, Corporate Officer, The Pokémon Company, said, “Pokémon Run represents a milestone in our evolving relationship with Indian audiences, where community-driven experiences shape how entertainment is consumed and celebrated. It is a perfect weekend plan for anyone who wants to spend an active day outdoors with kids, friends and family. Whether you wish to run or simply enjoy an exciting day with music, dance, food, goodies, and of course, Pokémon, this event promises to entertain and energise you.”

P. Venkatraman, CEO of YouTooCanRun, the organising partner, said, “Pokémon Run aligns perfectly with our goal of promoting good health through fun and interactive events. We want people to discover the joy of staying active by offering them experiences that are unique and memorable, and what could be a better way to do that than having a chance to spend a fun time with Pokémon.”

Bangalore, 21 February 2025 – India Week 2025, a highly anticipated event hosted by the global advisory firm EPG, will take place from May 22 to May 30 in London. This gathering aims to bring together senior business and political leaders from India and the UK, with an ambitious goal of facilitating at least INR 100 crore in business deals, further strengthening the ties between the two nations.

 The timing of India Week 2025 is crucial, as it coincides with the resumption of discussions on the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The event will feature a diverse line up of thought-provoking sessions, industry-specific conclaves, and high-level networking opportunities, making it a premier platform for fostering cross-border trade and investment.

 India Week is an annual gathering of key decision-makers, innovators, and policymakers. This year’s highlights include:
The Film Conclave: A unique platform that unites international filmmakers focusing on India-centric stories with potential funders, aiming to finance 20 feature-length films and documentaries.

 Ideas for India Conference: In partnership with the leading think tank Bridge India, this flagship event will attract delegates from over ten countries, fostering discussions on economic collaboration and global challenges.

 Asian Business Association’s 30th Anniversary: A landmark celebration led by billionaire hotelier Tony Matharu, recognizing three decades of entrepreneurial excellence within the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

 The significance of India Week has been emphasized by notable endorsements from UK leaders. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently acknowledged the contributions of British Asians, stating, “British Asians are a driving force behind much of the social, cultural, and economic innovation we see in Britain today. It is wonderful to see so many British Asian change-makers being recognized by the team at EPG.”

 Elaborating further Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner remarked that it was “an honour” to have addressed the Ideas for India forum previously, further cementing the event’s reputation as a must-attend summit for influential voices in the UK-India partnership.

 EPG Managing Director Pratik Dattani highlighted the event’s economic impact, noting, “India Week continues to be the most significant annual celebration of bilateral economic ties. Over the past two years, we’ve seen key deals in education, financial services, deep tech, and AI materialize. This year, we are aiming for at least INR 100 crore in signed deals.”

Dr. J V Srinivas, Lead Consultant – Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement, Aster RV Hospital

Bones make up the structural support for the body, allowing one to move freely, protecting the vital organs from injuries, and storing minerals like calcium. Maintaining good bone health is crucial particularly as you age, as it minimizes the risk of osteoporosis – a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to breaking from minor falls or injuries. However, these 5 lifestyle factors deteriorate bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Alcohol –

Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact bone health by interfering with the bone remodeling process, leading to decreased bone density and an increased risk of fractures; this happens primarily by inhibiting the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building new bone, while also disrupting the balance between bone formation and resorption, resulting in bone loss over time.

Soda –

Soda, particularly cola, can negatively impact bone health by potentially decreasing bone mineral density and increasing the risk of fractures due to the high phosphoric acid content which interferes with calcium absorption in the body, leading to a calcium imbalance and potential bone loss.

Excessive salt consumption –

Consuming too much salt raises the risk of osteoporosis and weakens bones. This is because it can result in a negative calcium balance by increasing the quantity of calcium excreted in urine. essentially, consuming too much salt can “wash” calcium out of the bones through the kidneys.

Smoking –

Smoking slows the healing process by lowering blood flow to the bones, muscles, and joints. The creation of osteoblasts, the cells that make bones, is slowed down by nicotine in cigarettes. Smoking impairs the body’s absorption of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones. Smoking can alter the hormone balance, particularly that of estrogen, which is crucial for bone growth and maintenance.

Poor diet habits –

A poor diet lowers calcium and vitamin D levels which can impair bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Furthermore, excess sugar raises cortisol levels, which have been connected to osteoporosis. A diet weak in protein will increase the risk of bone loss. Consuming excessive amounts of saturated fat can impair your body’s capacity to absorb calcium.

Chandigarh, February 21, 2025: Vedanta Ltd on Thursday said its shareholders and lenders have approved the splitting of the metals to oil conglomerate into five independent, sector-focused entities.

In a stock exchange filing, Vedanta said 99.99 per cent of shareholders who voted for the demerger scheme, supported the move.

Parallelly, 99.59 per cent of the secured creditors, and 99.95 per cent of unsecured creditors of Vedanta Ltd voted in favour of the demerger.

The five entities being created from the split would include Vedanta Ltd, which would house the company’s base metals. According to Vedanta’s demerger scheme, every Vedanta shareholder will receive 1 additional share in each of the 4 newly demerged companies on the completion of the demerger process.

The other companies that will be created out of the demerger are Vedanta Aluminium, one of the world’s largest producers of aluminium; Vedanta Oil & Gas, India’s largest private-sector crude oil producer; Vedanta Power, one of India’s largest generators of power; Vedanta Iron and Steel – a company with a highly scalable ferrous portfolio; and Vedanta Limited – which will include the world’s second largest integrated zinc producer and third largest silver producer – in Hindustan Zinc.

Vedanta Ltd will also act as an incubator for new businesses, including Vedanta’s technology verticals.

As per Vedanta’s demerger scheme, the demerger will create five independent companies of a global scale focussed on the mining, production and/or supply of aluminium, iron-ore, copper, oil & gas, and on generation and distribution of power.

It will enable greater focus of the Vedanta management on the relevant businesses thereby allowing further streamlining of operations and more efficient usage of assets and leveraging of opportunities.

Similarly, the demerger scheme has emphasized that over time, each of the independent companies can attract different sets of investors, strategic partners, lenders, and other stakeholders enabling deeper collaboration and expansion in these specific companies without committing the existing organisation in its entirety.

The demerger will enable investors to separately hold investments in businesses with different investment characteristics and market potential thereby allowing them to select investments which best suit their investment strategies and risk profiles.

As per Vedanta’s demerger scheme, it will also enable focused and sharper capital market access (debt and equity), thereby unlocking the value of the demerged entities.

Vedanta Ltd currently operates a diversified portfolio with interests in metals, mining, oil and gas, power generation, and other emerging sectors.

As listed companies have to seek various approvals under relevant sectoral and capital market regulations, the proposed demerger scheme will remain subject to receipt of other applicable statutory, government and regulatory approvals, including inter alia from the National Company Law Tribunal.

New Delhi, India – 21st February 2025 – Newcastle University (NCL) reaffirmed its commitment to fostering strong academic and research collaborations in India through a series of high-impact engagements led by Vice-Chancellor and President, Prof. Chris Day. The delegation visiting India encompassed strategic partnerships with premier institutions, alumni networking events, and key discussions on educational collaboration and innovation.

 Strengthening Ties with IIT Delhi and OP Jindal: Newcastle University discussed with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, a Joint Centre of Climate Change and Resilient Infrastructure, which will facilitate faculty and student exchanges, joint research initiatives, and academic collaborations. This will cement NCL’s long-standing partnership with IIT-D, established particularly through the GCRF Water Security and Sustainable Development Hub.

 Prof. Day also met with Prof. C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice-Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), to further build on an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The discussions focused on expanding collaborations in law, student exchange programs, and pathways for international legal education.

 Engaging with the Janya Collective: Newcastle University also met with the Janya Collective; a social enterprise dedicated to improving water security in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. As a key partner of NCL’s GCRF Water Security Hub, the Janya Collective has played a vital role in promoting sustainable water management solutions. Prof. Day and his team explored community-based interventions implemented during the Water Security Hub project and reaffirmed NCL’s commitment to supporting innovative and localized water security strategies.

 Alumni Events: Celebrating NCL’s Impact: Newcastle University hosted in-person alumni networking events in New Delhi and Mumbai, marking the launch of the first dedicated NCL alumni network. The event celebrated NCL’s achievements in India and outlined its future ambitions. Distinguished alumnus Rakshit Jagdale (MBA, 2002), Managing Director of Amrut Distilleries, shared insights on how his NCL contributed to his growth and success.

 The event also provided a platform for alumni to reconnect and engage with the university’s vision for deeper collaboration in India. NCL also launched a new scholarship offer for Indian students applying for the 2025 academic intake at these events.

 Newcastle University alumnus Mr. Kinner N. Sacchdev, Co-Founder and CEO of Knorish, speaking on behalf of the North India Alumni Network leaders, added, “Throughout my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve learned that success is rarely a solo endeavor. People invest in those they trust, support those they connect with, and open doors for those they share a bond with. As Newcastle alumni, we are part of a powerful network that extends far beyond our time at university—it’s a community built on shared experiences, values, and aspirations. I’ve seen how a single message, a chance meeting, or a small act of generosity within this network can transform careers. The key is to approach networking with purpose, build meaningful relationships, and add value first. When we do that, we don’t just create opportunities for ourselves—we create a ripple effect of success for others.”

 Newcastle University’s delegation visit to India underscores its commitment to building sustainable academic partnerships, fostering innovation, and enhancing student and faculty exchange opportunities. As the university continues to expand its presence in India, these collaborations will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global education and research.

Chandigarh, FEBRUARY 21, 2025: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, today announced the opening of Taj Mussoorie Foothills, Dehradun.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO, IHCL, said, “We are delighted to expand Taj’s presence in Uttarakhand with the opening of Taj Mussoorie Foothills in the capital city of Dehradun. IHCL will have a multi brand presence in the city and with the recently opened Delhi-Dehradun Expressway enhancing connectivity, it has evolved to be a commercially prominent city in the region. In addition, its proximity to popular destinations such as Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar attracts a mix of leisure, adventure and spiritual tourism.”

Nestled in the serene foothills of the Himalayas, Taj Mussoorie Foothills, Dehradun, is a luxurious sanctuary that seamlessly blends modern elegance with the region’s natural beauty. The 115-key hotel, including 16 exquisitely designed suites, offers an immersive escape. Guests can indulge in diverse culinary experiences, from Vista, an all-day dining restaurant serving global and Indian flavours, to House of Nomad, a sophisticated gastro pub, Tropics, a poolside dining venue, and Emperor Lounge, a space for high tea and handcrafted beverages. The hotel features four versatile banqueting spaces ranging from 1,200 sq. ft. to 8,000 sq. ft., along with well-equipped meeting rooms, making it an ideal destination for weddings, conferences, and social gatherings.

Guests can rejuvenate with the signature therapies at the J Wellness Spa. The hotel also features dedicated pet amenities, a kids’ activity zone, a walking track with accessibility features, and EV charging stations, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive stay. Taj Mussoorie Foothills, Dehradun offers curated experiences including the Malsi Nature Forest Walk, a trek to Shikhar Falls, and a wildlife safari at Rajaji National Park.

Speaking on the opening, Mr. Naveen Tomar, General Manager, Taj Mussoorie Foothills, Dehradun, said, “Taj Mussoorie Foothills is designed to offer guests an immersive experience in the lap of nature. From curated experiences to bespoke services, we look forward to creating unforgettable stays for our guests.”

By- Dr. Manish Patni, Neurologist, (DNB Neurology), HCG Hospitals, Bhavnagar

 The human body is a spectacle of intricate systems working in harmony, and among its most delicate structures is the central nervous system (CNS). Central to its function is the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), a clear, protective liquid that safeguards the brain and spinal cord. However, when this vital fluid leaks due to trauma, surgery, or other causes, it can lead to serious health complications.

 What is a Spinal Fluid Leak?
A spinal fluid leak occurs when a tear or hole develops in the dura mater, the protective membrane surrounding the spinal cord and brain. This allows cerebrospinal fluid to escape, often resulting in debilitating symptoms. Such leaks may arise from head or spinal injuries, surgical complications, or spontaneous causes. Common sites for CSF leaks include the spinal column and the base of the skull.

 How Dangerous is a Spinal Fluid Leak?
While some spinal fluid leaks are minor and are resolved on its own, others can pose significant risks. Key dangers include:
• Chronic Headaches: The hallmark symptom of a CSF leak is a severe headache that worsens when standing and improves when lying down.
• Infections: The loss of CSF can increase the risk of infections like meningitis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
• Neurological Issues: Prolonged leaks may cause symptoms such as visual disturbances, hearing loss, or cognitive impairment.
• Permanent Disability: In severe cases, untreated CSF leaks can lead to irreversible damage to the brain or spinal cord, hampering mobility, coordination, or other critical functions.
Precautions to Prevent and Address Spinal Fluid Leaks
Given the serious implications of a CSF leak, proactive measures are essential:
• Protect Against Trauma:
o Use seatbelts while driving and wear helmets during activities like cycling or contact sports. Avoid risky behaviors that may lead to falls or injuries to the head and spine.
• Seek Immediate Care After Injury:
o Any head or spinal trauma should be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out a CSF leak.
• Recognize Early Symptoms:
o Persistent headaches, nausea, clear fluid drainage from the nose or ears, and vision changes are red flags.
• Post-Surgical Vigilance:
o Patients recovering from spinal or brain surgery should follow all post-operative care guidelines and report unusual symptoms promptly.
• Avoid Excessive Strain:
o Activities that increase pressure on the spine, such as heavy lifting or intense coughing, should be done with caution.
Treatment Options
Treatment for spinal fluid leaks depends on their severity and underlying cause. A few options are :
• Conservative Management: Bed rest, increased hydration, and caffeine intake can help minor leaks heal naturally.
• Epidural Blood Patch: A small amount of the patient’s blood is injected near the leak to seal it.
• Surgical Repair: Severe or persistent leaks may require surgical intervention to close the tear in the dura mater.
• Infection Control: Antibiotics or antivirals may be prescribed if there is a risk of meningitis.

 Looking forward
Spinal fluid leakage is a serious medical condition that demands attention and care. Early recognition and prompt treatment are crucial to preventing complications and ensuring a full recovery. By taking precautions and remaining vigilant about symptoms, individuals can protect themselves from the potentially lifelong impacts of a CSF leak. Always consult a healthcare professional if you suspect a spinal fluid leak to safeguard your health and well-being.

National, 21 February 2025: As the world counts down to the 97th Academy Awards, PVR INOX is set to bring an unparalleled cinematic experience to Indian audiences with the much-anticipated Oscars Film Festival 2025. This grand festival is a tribute to the finest films of the year, offering movie lovers the exclusive opportunity to watch Oscar-nominated and award-winning films on the big screen.

Spanning three thrilling weeks, the festival will take place across 54 cinemas in 22 cities in India.

Festival Timeline:

Week 1 (Feb 21 – Feb 27): Exclusive screenings of this year’s Oscar-nominated films.
Week 2 (Feb 28 – Mar 6): A deeper dive into the most celebrated nominees, leading up to the grand Oscars night.
Week 3 (Mar 7 – Mar 13): Special screenings of the Oscar-winning films, bringing the best of the best back to the big screen.

 Mr. Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Executive Director, PVR INOX Ltd., shared his enthusiasm, stating: “At PVR INOX, we take immense pride in bringing world-class cinema to Indian audiences, and the Oscars Film Festival 2025 is a testament to our passion for storytelling. Year after year, the Academy Awards set the benchmark for excellence in filmmaking, and this festival allows audiences to experience that brilliance firsthand. We look forward to yet another successful edition of the festival and invite movie lovers to relive the best of global cinema on the big screen, while also showcasing critically acclaimed films from around the world.”

The carefully curated lineup includes some of the most talked-about films of the season, each carrying its own unique cinematic significance. Dune: Part Two, the epic sci-fi sequel, promises breathtaking visuals and a gripping continuation of Frank Herbert’s legendary saga. Wicked, the long-awaited adaptation of the Broadway sensation, brings a spellbinding musical journey to life. Inside Out 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Pixar’s emotional masterpiece, takes audiences on another heartfelt adventure into the complexities of the human mind. The Brutalist delivers a compelling narrative on art, ambition, and survival, while Emilia Pérez presents a strikingly unconventional blend of crime and musical drama, pushing the boundaries of storytelling.

This festival is a must-attend for every movie lover. It offers the rare chance to experience Oscar-worthy storytelling on the big screen, relive the most critically acclaimed and fan-favourite films of the year, and immerse in the thrill of the Oscars season alongside fellow enthusiasts. Audiences can also enjoy state-of-the-art projection and sound, ensuring that each film is presented in the highest quality, just as its creators envisioned.